Niger govt approves pioneering digital initiative with zero naira RoW charge

The Niger State Executive Council, under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, has approved a pioneering digital initiative with a zero Right of Way (RoW) charge, aiming to enhance digital infrastructure in the state.

The state’s Commissioner for Communications Technology and Digital Economy, Hon. Suleiman Isah, disclosed this in Minna, stating that the private Fiber Optic Company would operate with a zero naira per linear meter Right of Way (RoW) charge.

He explained that the company had committed to providing public Wi-Fi services, Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connectivity, fixed telephony, and internet access at all state-owned tertiary institutions within the metro ring.

The commissioner also added that the initiative aims to significantly boost digital connectivity and empower students and faculty with enhanced access to information and communication technologies.

“This landmark decision signals the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment conducive to private sector investment and technological advancement. In exchange for this unprecedented RoW charge exemption, the private Fiber Optic Company has pledged to install a 40-kilometer fiber metro ring across the state capital,” Isah stated.

Isah noted that the standard RoW charge in Niger State remains at 145 naira per linear meter, as per the 2022 gazette of the consolidated revenue administration law.

“We want to reaffirm the state’s commitment to supporting proposals that do not rely on state resources for financing while underscoring the significance of private sector drivers in advancing sustainable digital infrastructure provisioning,” he maintained.

“Niger State is proud to position itself as a Sub-national prototype State, offering an enabling environment for private sector innovation. By embracing forward-thinking policies and fostering collaborative partnerships, the State is poised to unlock new opportunities and propel itself towards a prosperous future,” the commissioner added.